The Boston Red Sox failed to sign Jon Lester and begin the transformation of their starting rotation. However, they're not out of luck because there still remain a number of free-agent and trade options out there. Here's a short list of possibilities:
Max Scherzer, Free Agent: It was reported on Tuesday that he wants a $200 million contract. If Boston wouldn't go over $135 million for Lester, this has no chance of going down. Just to clarify.
James Shields, Free Agent: This is perhaps Boston's best shot to rebound and improve their rotation. According to ESPN's Jim Bowden, Shields is projected to land a five-year, $100 million contract, which is well within their budget. They offered Lester six-years for $135 million, but they viewed him as the staff's ace. Do they view Shields, who will be 33 next season, as an ace? If not, are they willing to pay a No. 2 starter around $100 million? According to Bowden, the Red Sox weren't concerned with his poor postseason, and ESPN Boston's Gordon Edes says Shields' agent is expected to meet with Boston this week.
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Wade Miley, Arizona Diamondbacks: According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the D-Backs are listening to offers for Miley, who is in his first year of arbitration eligibility. The left-hander is due for a raise after an All-Star season in 2012 and a 38-35 record with a 3.79 ERA over the past four seasons with Arizona. Rosenthal mentions Boston could trade for Miley, but nothing has developed on that front.
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A number of other available free agents include Edinson Volquez, Ervin Santana, Brandon McCarthy, Kris Medlen, Brandon Beachy and Chris Young.
